Subterranean Superstars

by Fred Schlatter - Citysearch Contributor - 311 Reviews - 33 Lists

Updated: November 24, 2008

True, the finest destinations are often in clutch locations--spaces reserved for elite food and drink, positioned in full view of every envious passerby. But those obvious choices can leave something to be desired. Namely, the thrill of discovery. For that, head downstairs.

Hidden Hangouts

  1. 1 4 Star Rating: Recommended A Mano
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    335 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

    Buried beneath Bin 36 and adorned with an unlikely, mall-like sign, this cramped Italian restaurant is about as unassuming as a River North spot gets. But the locals, tucking into roasted fish on the bone, homemade ragu-soaked pastas and handcrafted gelato, know that looks aren't everything.

  2. 2 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Underground Wonder Bar
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    10 E Walton St, Chicago, IL 60611 (map)

    There are jazz and blues clubs throughout Chicago; many that are more authentic and with better line-ups than this below street-level spot. But for a space that's open 365 days a year until 4am and rarely without a buzzing, good-times crowd, well that's the stuff of legend.

  3. 3 Snuggery
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    222 S Riverside Plz, Chicago, IL 60606 (map)

    Commuting by train means two things--stress in making the departure time and frustration in delays. The smart train-hopper knocks off work half an hour early, heads over to Union Station and finds a stool at this tavern, tucked away below the fray. Pity the harried masses.

  4. 4 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Bricks
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    1909 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

    Look around the room. See all those knowing faces necking mugs of frosty beer and digging into those fragrant pies? There's a good chance half of them are industry folk--they swarm the dark recesses of this moody lair on off-nights, well aware better pizza is unlikely in such a fetching space.

  5. 5 Eatzis Catering
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    2828 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

    The escalator ride down two flights and the bright supermarket lighting don't exactly scream gourmet. Looks can be deceiving, though; the aisles are stacked with exotic ingredients and artisan products, and the prepared food island groans with pastas, roasts, vegetables, soups and salads.

  6. 6 3 Star Rating: Average The Underground
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    56 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60610 (map)

    The highest rollers and hottest singles still flock to this basement lounge despite the interminable waits, surly doormen and occasional overcrowding. On the right night, there's no arguing that the vibe reaches levels of cool unrivaled around town.